Having been a fan of Tetrarch since “Negative Noise” melted my brain, I have been itching for a new album from the band and their latest The Ugly Side of Me does not disappoint. The Ugly Side of Me is a full-force statement from a band stepping into their prime with precision and fire. It’s their heaviest, catchiest, and most focused work yet and proof they’re no longer rising stars. They’re here.
Built on a foundation of blistering riffs, surgical electronics, and thunderous groove, the album doesn’t waste time trying to be everything. It knows exactly what it wants to do, and does it well. Going in for the immediate kill. Tracks like “Live Not Fantasize” and “Never Again (Parasite)” crackle with controlled chaos, while spotlighting the band’s knack for melodic structure without compromising weight. There’s punch in every chorus, venom in every verse.
The real evolution here is how the band branches out vocally. Josh Fore delivers with grit and range, but the big moment is Diamond Rowe stepping forward on “Never Again (Parasite).” It’s a shift that works, adding new texture without feeling forced. Her vocal debut is sharp, and her guitar work remains absolutely untouchable. Her status as Jackson Guitars’ first female signature artist isn’t just symbolic; she shreds with intent, style, and authority.
“Best Of Luck” brings a smart-ass swagger rooted in real experience, and “Cold” leans into Tetrarch’s industrial edge with glitchy textures and a driving beat. Across all ten tracks, the production is spotless. It’s tight, clean, and massive, thanks to co-producers Dave Otero, Diamond, and Josh.
Tetrarch aren’t chasing trends. They’re sharpening their own. The Ugly Side of Me doesn’t just push the band forward; it opens the door for a whole new tier of modern metal. It’s where shred-forward aggression meets massive hooks and no-bull attitude. Simply put, with cutthroat riffs and razor hooks Tetrarch proves they are modern metal’s next leaders.
